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JORVIK Viking Centre

York’s history is full of tales of pillaging, rampaging Vikings, who have had a huge influence on the culture and formation of the city. No venue makes the colourful and eventful history of the Nordic tradition come alive more than the Jorvik Viking Centre, a sensory delight which caters for young and old visitors, alike.

The world famous JORVIK Viking Centre is a ‘must-see’ for visitors to the city of York and is one of the most popular visitor attractions in the UK outside London.

Welcoming more than 15 million visitors over the past 25 years, visitors can journey through the reconstruction of Viking-Age streets, as they would have been in the year AD975. Jorvik Viking Centre also offers three exciting exhibitions and the chance to actually come face to face with a Viking!

About the Jorvik Viking Centre

Everything in Jorvik Viking Centre is based on archaeological evidence unearthed during the Coppergate excavations undertaken between 1979–81 by the York Archaeological Trust.

Archaeologists started digging on the site of an old sweet factory and unearthed remains of 10th century Viking-age buildings that were surrounded by moist, spongy layers of earth similar to that of a peat bog. These damp conditions helped preserve everyday Viking items such as wood, leather, cloth, bugs and even a Viking toilet and its contents.

In total, an incredible 40,000 objects were uncovered by excavating 36,000 layers and sieving 8 tonnes of soil. When the extent and importance of the discoveries at Coppergate was realised, plans were made to allow permanent display of the remains of Jorvik within the area which had been excavated. York Archaeological Trust created the Jorvik Viking Centre which opened to the public in April 1984.

Accessibility for the Centre

Jorvik Viking Centre is a multi-sensory visitor experience that incorporates sights, sounds, smells and touch elements within the attraction. Costumed Viking hosts provide one-to-one interaction with visitors, and can tailor your visit to suit your individual needs.

The Centre has a ride capsule available that is installed with a hearing loop. (This covers all six seats in the capsule). A written version of the time capsule commentary is also available to ensure you get the most out of your visit.

Due to health and safety regulations, only one wheelchair user can be in Jorvik at any one time. Wheelchair users can be booked in advance to avoid having to wait by calling our Reservations department on 01904 615505 – ask our Concierge to help you with this, if required. We can also help with booking tickets, directions to the Centre, and any other requirements you may have.